5 Minutes with Billie Faiers

This weekend saw Sam & Billie Faiers from The Only Way Is Essex launch their exclusive Minnie’s Boutique pop-up shop at Pavilions Birmingham. Local stylist Beth Goodrham spoke to Billie about style inspiration, ambition for the future and going out without any makeup!

What three words would you use to describe your style? On-trend. Smart. Glam

Who is your style icon? Olivia Palermo

Who or what inspires you? I get inspiration from everywhere; other celebrities, magazines and online shopping. I’m always researching ideas and looking for inspiration as Minnie’s is a fast fashion boutique so we always like to keep up to date with the latest trends.

What long term plans do you have for the business? I would definitely say it would be to open up other stores across the UK and also expand online.

How important is it that the business is a joint venture with your Mum and Auntie? It is very important! You can totally your trust family so we have a very good business relationship, and we can be honest and open when talking about all aspects of the business, including our ideas.

What advice would you give to other young female entrepreneurs? Work hard and don’t give up! Drive and ambition will pay off in the end. Think outside the box so you can make your business venture unique.

Do you feel the pressure to appear well groomed and stylish at all times, or do you sometimes sneak out when you’re not looking your best?! I do go out a lot without make-up, especially if I’m at home and around my local area or in the office. However, most the time I know I will be ‘papped’ so I’ll try to look my best. You wouldn’t see me with a face full of make up on the beach though!

You obviously have a large fan base of young girls. What advice would you give them about maintaining a positive body image and learning to love their bodies despite the pressures from the media? Be confident about who you are and embrace your curves! It is important to dress to suit your shape as often the one follows the other – if you dress for your body shape, you’ll feel comfortable and therefore confident. I feel confident wearing body-con dresses as I like to accentuate my hour glass figure and boobs.

What are you most looking forward to about your pop up shop in Birmingham? We have a huge fan base there,and from our Twitter and Facebook response from our fans it’s going to be an amazing and busy weekend! Birmingham is a great city so we can’t wait!